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Oilers on Brink, Pistons Reeling as First Rounds Deliver Shocks

Injuries, a disputed review plus slumping attacks tilt several first-round series.

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ORLANDO, FL - APRIL 25: Franz Wagner #22 of the Orlando Magic celebrates with the fans after making a 3-pointer shot during the second half of game three of the first round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs against the Detroit Pistons at the Kia Center on April 25, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. The Magic defeated the Pistons 113 to 105. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - APRIL 26: Kevin Durant #7 and Fred Vanvleet #5 of the Houston Rockets sit on the bench during the second quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game Four of the First Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Toyota Center on April 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Edmonton trails Anaheim 3-1 after a video-reviewed overtime winner credited to Ryan Poehling, and the Oilers now face a must-win Game 5 at home.
  • NHL insider Elliotte Friedman questioned whether there was conclusive video to show the puck crossed the line, noting no official stood behind the net on the play.
  • Ottawa’s season ended in a four-game sweep by Carolina despite Linus Ullmark’s standout goaltending with save percentages above .926 in every game.
  • Top-seeded Detroit is down 3-1 to Orlando and returns home needing three straight wins as Cade Cunningham’s turnovers and the team’s cold three-point shooting have stalled the offense.
  • Across the NBA, multiple series hit Game 5 with Boston and San Antonio positioned to clinch and New York hosting Atlanta in a 2-2 series, while the Lakers also try to close out Houston despite injuries on both sides.